Relationship between serum mineral levels in the second and third trimester of pregnancy and the risk of gestational diabetes mellitus: a retrospective cohort study.

INTRODUCTION

Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) poses significant health risks for both the mother and fetus, and it also increases the mother's risk of developing type 2 diabetes later in life. Mineral elements may play a crucial role in the development of GDM by influencing insulin metabolism. However, comprehensive studies on serum mineral levels during pregnancy remain limited. This study aims to evaluate the relationship between serum mineral levels in pregnant women during the second and third trimesters and the risk of developing GDM.

METHODS

This retrospective cohort study included 17,224 singleton pregnancies delivered between 2016 and 2022 at a tertiary hospital in China. Maternal demographic data and serum mineral concentration information from the mid and late stages of pregnancy were collected through the hospital information system. Analyses were conducted using restricted cubic spline models and multivariate logistic regression models.

RESULTS

The prevalence of GDM in this study was 15.07%. Chloride [P for overall = 0.01; P for non-linear = 0.373; OR (95% CI) = 1.03 (1.01, 1.05)] showed a significant linear positive association with GDM. Additionally, serum levels of calcium (P for non-linear < 0.001), potassium (P for nonlinear = 0.036), and magnesium (P for nonlinear < 0.001) were found to have non-linear relationships with the risk of GDM. The interactions between calcium and magnesium [OR (95% CI) = 0.05 (0.01, 0.27), P for interaction < 0.001], potassium and magnesium [OR (95% CI) = 0.11 (0.03, 0.37), P for interaction < 0.001], and potassium and chloride [OR (95% CI) = 1.06 (1.01, 1.11), P for interaction < 0.001] were significant.

DISCUSSION: The study indicates that specific serum mineral levels in pregnant women are closely associated with the risk of gestational diabetes mellitus. A deeper understanding of the mechanisms and interactions of these minerals could aid in developing effective prevention and treatment strategies, thereby reducing the incidence of GDM and improving pregnancy outcomes.